MOTORSPORT: Bradley Smith laps up chance to test himself at Sepang

BRADLEY Smith was happy to get plenty of laps under his belt as the build-up to the new MotoGP season began in earnest.

The 23-year-old completed 186 laps in humid conditions during the three-day test at Malyasia’s Sepang circuit.

Smith finished eighth fastest, but crucially was able to work hard on all aspects of the Monster Tech 3 Yamaha’s set-up ahead of his second season in the elite series next month.

“All in all I am pleased, even if the position on the timesheet does not seem to be ideal, it was never my main aim to set fast lap times during these three days,” said the Forest Hill rider, who finished tenth in his rookie season.

“We are looking at the bigger picture, and preparing for the championship and we will try to be ready for that opening race in Qatar.

“I’ve completed over 180 laps in the heat and managed to work on so many things, which included a race simulation test on the third day.

“I’m ready for my bed but it was great to be back riding.”

Smith returns to Malaysia at the end of the month for another three-day test in preparation for the opening race of the season, in Qatar on March 23.

Reigning champion Marc Marquez led the way in the first test, with Valentino Rossi second and Jorge Lorenzo third.

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